In a delightful display of creativity, grandchildren surprised their grandparents, Marlene and her husband, by decorating their home with whimsical touches during a weekend visit in November 2023. The unexpected decorations included tiny glass ducks hidden throughout the house, bringing joy and laughter to the family.
Joyful Surprises and Precious Memories
It all began when Marlene’s grandchildren stayed over for the weekend. Late on a Friday night, they embarked on a playful mission, scattering colorful little ducks in unexpected places. By morning, the couple discovered these charming additions hidden on shelves, in cupboards, and even inside drawers. The children shared their excitement, admitting they feared they might be caught while setting up their surprise.
The playful spirit of the grandchildren echoed Marlene’s own youthful experiences. Reflecting on her teenage years in Edgerton, she remembered the tradition of decorating friends’ yards, often with toilet paper, to convey affection and camaraderie. Such antics were a way of demonstrating love and ensuring friends felt cherished.
This sense of nostalgia deepened when Marlene discovered a small figurine of Jesus, cleverly tucked away on a model ship her late father-in-law, Leo, had assembled. After a week of searching, she found the figurine on the stern of the ship, prompting her to share the discovery with her grandson, Toby. This moment served as a reminder of the family stories and traditions that bind generations together.
A Legacy of Love and History
Leo’s model ship, a representation of his time serving on the USS Acadia during his military service, holds significant meaning for Marlene’s family. The USS Acadia, originally launched in 1932, was converted into a hospital ship in 1943 and played a vital role in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Leo’s experiences as a cook on the ship during the war have become a cherished part of family lore.
As the grandchildren returned for the Christmas holidays, they were eager to know how many ducks remained undiscovered. The count had reached 36, with the children claiming 64 more were yet to be found. This playful challenge added to the excitement of their visits, as the family continues to share stories and create new memories.
The little Jesus figurine, now a permanent fixture on the ship model, symbolizes the enduring love passed down from previous generations. It serves as a testament to the bonds of family and the joy of shared experiences. Marlene Oxender, a seasoned writer, speaker, and author, continues to reflect on her upbringing and family stories, including her late brother, Stevie Kimpel, who was born with Down syndrome.
Marlene’s published works, including Picket Fences, Stevie, and Grandma, You Already Am Old, are available on Amazon and offer further insights into her life and experiences. She can be reached at [email protected].
